Maintaining Toothbrushes

Your toothbrush is your most important tool for keeping your mouth healthy. We know you’ve gotten one if you’ve been maintaining your appointments at Dr. Suzanne Haeri’s South Carthay dental office, but we hope you’re replacing it in between visits. Toothbrushes get less effective as they become worn, so to make sure our patients are taking good care of themselves, we wanted to say a bit about toothbrush maintenance.

 

It usually takes about three to four months for a toothbrush’s bristles to become too matted to be of use, although you’ll have to use your own judgment if you think you’re wearing them out sooner. You should certainly replace the toothbrush if the bristles are crushed down sideways. You should also be letting your toothbrush dry in the open air while upright, since putting it in a closed case will allow fungus to grow on it. There’s no evidence that free-floating bacteria that land on a toothbrush will harm the user, but washing the toothbrush with hot water before and after using it will help prevent bacterial build-up.

 

Some dental companies manufacture specialized tools for cleaning toothbrushes, including their own electric toothbrush heads. But you should never clean a toothbrush by putting it in a dishwasher or microwave, or you risk melting it. Different people’s toothbrushes should be kept from touching each other so that bacteria won’t migrate between people. It’s also a good idea to maintain separate toothbrushes for natural teeth and dentures, although that’s more to protect the dentures from being scratched by toothpaste intended for harder, natural teeth. And remember that only soft-bristled toothbrushes should be used for dental hygiene.

 

The dental office of Suzanne Haeri, DDS, is located at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, California, 90035. To schedule an appointment, call 310-657-2200 or visit our website at Suzanne Haeri DDS.

Scaling and Planing

If your gums are red and puffy and you see blood when you spit out your toothpaste, you probably have gum disease. This is a common problem and it can be treated, but it won’t get better on its own. At the South Carthay office of Dr. Suzanne Haeri, we offer general dental services including deep cleanings for people suffering from gingivitis. This procedure is commonly regarded among dental researchers as the most reliable way of combating mild gum disease, ensuring that patients will be able to keep their teeth and avoid relapses.

 

Normally, gum tissue clings tightly to tooth roots. But if plaque is allowed to build up below the gum line, the acid caught in it will cause the gum tissue to pull away from the tooth, creating a pocket. This pocket doesn’t get cleaned during ordinary brushing and flossing and becomes a haven for oral bacteria. The infection cycle continues to escalate, causing the gums to become inflamed and recede.

 

During a scaling, we'll will use a hook to remove plaque from the gum pocket. The patient will be given a localized anesthetic before this and won’t feel anything. Damage to the tooth root caused by the plaque and tartar may have caused the root’s surface to become pitted, making it easy for bacteria to colonize in the future. To prevent this, the root may also be planed, meaning that it will be smoothed down. Planing may require a second appointment, and patients are often instructed to take an antibiotic afterward. Following a deep cleaning, patients will have to remain diligent about maintaining their oral hygiene, but their gums should heal and be able to hold their teeth in place.

 

The dental office of Suzanne Haeri, DDS, is located at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, California, 90035. To schedule an appointment, call 310-657-2200 or visit our website at Suzanne Haeri DDS.

Plaque and Tartar

No matter what your teeth are like, keeping regular dental appointments is one of the most important things you can do to keep them healthy. Twice-yearly cleanings are an opportunity to remove tartar, the calculus that inevitably builds up on teeth near the gumline. At the South Carthay office of Dr. Suzanne Haeri, we provide general dental services as well as cosmetic specialties, and we want all our patients to be proud of having clean, healthy teeth and gums.

 

Plaque and tartar are different things. Plaque is sticky and always present. It’s a film on the teeth made up of saliva, sugar from food, and oral bacteria. There are hundreds of species of oral bacteria, and most of them have a neutral or positive impact on us, but a few produce acid as a by-product of their cellular respiration. The acid gets caught in the teeth’s bio-film, leading to the decay of tooth enamel and the recession of gum tissue.

 

Tartar is plaque that has hardened into a yellow or brown colored paste. It contributes to gum recession and inflammation, but unlike plaque, it can’t just be brushed away. It only takes a few hours for plaque to start hardening, which is why people should drink water throughout the day, brush their teeth twice a day, and try to stick to set meal times or clean their teeth after snacking. During a dental appointment, a hygienist will break up tartar safely and floss each tooth properly, but patients can reduce how much tartar builds up between appointments by practicing good hygiene and avoiding foods that are sticky and full of simple sugars.

 

The dental office of Suzanne Haeri, DDS, is located at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, California, 90035. To schedule an appointment, call 310-657-2200 or visit our website at Suzanne Haeri DDS.

Laughing Gas 101

Nitrous oxide or commonly known as laughing gas is used in health care facilities to reduce pain and numb patients during a variety of treatments including surgery. Located in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Suzanne Haeri uses laughing gas to provide a safe, comfortable, and positive environment during all your dental procedures. Here’s everything you need to know about laughing gas before you book your next appointment today!

 

What Is Laughing Gas?

Nitrous oxide or laughing gas is a colorless odorless substance mixed with nitrogen and oxygen. This sedation method has been used for centuries and was first discovered in 1793 by English scientist Joseph Priestly.

How It Works

 

Before undergoing a procedure that uses laughing gas sedation, avoid eating a big meal at least three hours beforehand. Your Los Angeles, CA dentist will fit a small mask over your nose to inhale the nitrous oxide gas. The sedation effects only take a few minutes after you breathe normally through the mask. Nitrous oxide gas does not put you to sleep, so you will still be able to hear sounds and see what is going on. Instead of feeling anxious and worried during your dental treatment, laughing gas causes euphoria and an increased level of relaxation.

 

Once the mask is removed, your lungs will need a few minutes to receive oxygen again and your body will be alert in no time.

 

Symptoms

 

Common symptoms of nitrous oxide include mental confusion and tingling or numbness of the limbs. The chances of negative side effects are very low, with patients experiencing fatigue, vomiting, shivering, or sweating when nitrous oxide dosage levels were too high or inhaled quickly. Dr. Haeri is skilled in administering laughing gas and will be at your side every step of the way.

 

Effects

 

Laughing gas has three effects for patients:

-Pain reduction

-Increased levels of euphoria, so you’re relaxed

-Decreased anxiety and dental phobia

Is Laughing Gas Safe for Children?

 With new technologies in health practices, laughing gas is widely known as a safe sedation method for children. Contact our office today to find out if your child is a candidate for laughing gas today. 

To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.suzannehaeridds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Suzanne Haeri, DDS herself in our Los Angeles, CA office, call 310-657-2200.

 

Oral Health and Heart Disease

In a 2018 study conducted by the American Heart Association (AHA), poor oral health was shown to be linked to several cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension. Located in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Suzanne Haeri is passionate about oral health, which she believes fosters long-term wellness and prevents illnesses like heart disease. 

The Heart and Your Oral Health: How Are They Connected?

Many studies prove the link between heart health and dental habits. One study published in the Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology revealed that people who have gum disease or periodontal disease have higher risks of developing heart disease. But gum disease isn’t the only condition that can lead to heart disease. Poor brushing habits can also lead to heart conditions, according to findings presented at the AHA’s 2018 Scientific Session. 

Researchers have two theories of how oral health and the heart are connected. One way the two are connected is through the body’s bloodstream. Harmful bacteria in the mouth can spread through your bloodstream to the heart, elevating C reactive proteins that are associated with heart attacks. Another theory is that heart disease is your brain and body’s response to inflammation and plaque buildup in the gums and teeth. 

Prevention Is the Best Medicine

Your Los Angeles, CA dentist recommends healthy habits to prevent heart disease. These include:

-Eating a healthy diet chock full of fruits and vegetables. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and rinse out plaque.

-Regular visits to the dentist. At our L.A. clinic, we stay alert for heart disease indicators and provide thorough dental cleanings to reduce your mouth’s dangerous bacteria.

-Proper brushing and flossing. Make sure to brush and floss at least twice a day.

-Avoid smoking and tobacco use. These substances are not just bad for your oral and heart health, but your entire body, so it’s best to stay away.

To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.suzannehaeridds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Suzanne Haeri, DDS herself in our Los Angeles, CA office, call 310-657-2200.

Dentures vs. Implants

Dentures or implants? If you’re confused about which option is the best for you, Dr. Suzanne Haeri of Los Angeles, CA can help. Our L.A. clinic uses many forms of technology like dentures and implants to transform your smile. 

What Are Dentures?

Dentures are removable appliances used to replace missing teeth and are designed to be placed above your gums. There are three types of dentures:

-Conventional dentures:

This type of denture is placed into your mouth only after all of your teeth are removed and the gum tissue is healed completely.  Typically, the healing process will take several months, so you won’t have teeth for that whole period.

-Immediate dentures:

Unlike conventional dentures, you don’t have to spend time without teeth if you choose immediate dentures. Your Los Angeles, CA dentist will fit dentures in your mouth before your teeth are taken out. After the teeth are removed, the dentures are placed immediately in the mouth. Once the jawbone is healed, Dr. Haeri will tighten your dentures to refit your mouth.

-Partial dentures:

If you’re only missing some of your teeth, you may be a candidate for partial dentures. Using precision attachments, partial dentures are connected to the natural teeth that already remain in your mouth and do not need to be removed. 

What Are Implants?

Implants are a permanent solution to replace crooked or missing teeth. Instead of altering any teeth, implants replicate the root of the natural tooth and bond to your jawbone. Unlike dentures, implants feel like natural teeth and are meant to be cared for like natural teeth. After anesthesia, Dr. Haeri will place a titanium screw into your jaw bone. With an abutment and crown placed on the implant, the new tooth will appear just like a natural tooth and remain permanent. 

To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.suzannehaeridds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Suzanne Haeri, DDS herself in our Los Angeles, CA office, call 310-657-2200.

Wisdom Teeth: To Extract or Not?

Wisdom teeth are usually synonymous with pain, infection, crowding, and swollen gums. The general solution to these issues is extraction. But what if you don’t experience any of those symptoms? Located in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Suzanne Haeri provides expert care for wisdom teeth, from extractions to dental hygiene. 

 

What Are Wisdom Teeth?

Wisdom teeth typically grow in the 17-25 age years, emerging in the upper and lower back areas of the mouth. Since they are the last to appear in the human mouth, they’ve garnered the title “wisdom” and presumably make you wiser. Wisdom teeth were once very useful in human history, aiding our ancestors to chew and tear tough roots, meats, nuts, and plants. But because most of the human diet today is soft and cooked foods, the need for wisdom is virtually none, with anthropologists suggesting their DNA may soon completely disappear from genetics.

 

When to Extract?

When a wisdom tooth can’t break through the gums or is stuck under the gums, this means it’s impacted. A wisdom tooth that grows at the wrong angle due to lack of room in the mouth also is impacted. Partially impacted wisdom teeth, which only slightly emerge from the gums are also a cause for concern. 

 

Your Los Angeles, CA dentist recommends an extraction when your wisdom tooth is impacted and you experience the following symptoms:

 

-Pain

-Infection

-Ulcers near the tooth

-Tooth decay

-Damage to nearby teeth

-Gum disease

-Trouble opening jaw

-Bleeding gums

-Sudden bad breath

 

Sometimes wisdom teeth, even if not impacted, don’t need to be removed because they cause no oral health issues. Here are examples of when you don’t need an extraction:

 

-Your wisdom teeth are healthy and fully grown in

-Your wisdom teeth are positioned correctly

-Your wisdom teeth are easily reached for proper dental hygiene

To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.suzannehaeridds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Suzanne Haeri, DDS herself in our Los Angeles, CA office, call 310-657-2200.

 

How Fruit Juice Affects Your Teeth

Fruit juice seems like the perfect healthy drink for your kids, right? This all-natural beverage may seem like the best choice for your kids to enjoy as opposed to soda or caffeinated drinks. But, fruit drinks are also a major culprit for tooth decay and cavities. Located in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Suzanne Haeri treats a variety of dental health problems, including tooth decay which can stem from fruit juice.

The Dangers of Sugar

You’ve probably heard the dangers of sugar a thousand times. Sugar negatively impacts your body and your teeth are no different. After you eat junk food or sip on unhealthy drinks, harmful bacteria in your mouth like Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus feed on the sugars leftover in your saliva. These bacteria create a plaque on the surface of your teeth. They also trigger destructive acids which cause enamel erosion and tooth decay.

But, Why Fruit Juice?

Okay, we know sugar is bad, but why is fruit juice dangerous for oral health? When it comes to fruit juice or any similar food, keep in mind that just because something is natural doesn’t mean its completely healthy. 

Whether its sugar from candy or natural sugars derived from fruit, sugar is still sugar and harms your child’s teeth. Fruit juice isn’t all that healthy as well, with too much extra sugar and calories even if it’s naturally derived from just fruit. Bacteria also feed off natural sugars in your child’s mouth, leading the way for weak enamel and decay.

Treatment

Prevention is the best medicine. So the next time you pair your child’s afternoon snack with some beverage, choose water instead of juice. Of course, you don’t have to completely end your child’s juice intake but limiting the amount of fruit juice your child consumes daily is a good idea.

If your child is already experiencing dental problems from sugar, contact Dr. Haeri’s office in Los Angeles, CA today.  We use a variety of treatment options including fillings, crowns, and extractions to improve your child’s oral health. 

To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.suzannehaeridds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Suzanne Haeri, DDS herself in our Los Angeles, CA office, call 310-657-2200.

Painless Dentistry

Nervous about your dental visit? You’re not alone. Research platform DentaVox reports, about one-third of Americans avoid going to the dentist because of anxiety or fear. Located in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Suzanne Haeri is passionate about making dental appointments pleasant and positive experiences for all her patients. Here are several technologies we use to make your visit as comfortable as possible!

Sedation Dentistry

Using medications to relax patients during dental procedures, sedation dentistry is a great option for a painless dental experience. There are three levels of sedation we use at our office: minimal sedation, deep sedation, and general anesthesia.

Minimal sedation a smaller dose of medication, allowing you to be awake, but numb during the procedure. Deep sedation makes patients almost unconscious, with the ability to be awakened. Under general anesthesia, you’re completely unconscious during the entire process.

DentalVibe Injection Comfort System

DentalVibe is one of the revolutionary inventions your Los Angeles, CA offers to patients to eliminate painful dental visits. Unlike a traditional injection, you will feel no pricks, pinches, or even the tiniest amount of pain using DentalVibe. This device uses vibrations to block the sensation of pain, leaving patients with no side effects.

Bonding

When you think of bonding, unsightly silver amalgam fillings and a drill powering down on your teeth come to picture. Instead at our office, we use composite resin to cover discolored or damaged teeth. With no scary drilling in your teeth, bonding is a quick procedure that uses only an adhesive to attach molded resin onto the front of your teeth. 

To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.suzannehaeridds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Suzanne Haeri, DDS herself in our Los Angeles, CA office, call 310-657-2200.

Your Guide to Toothpaste

With thousands of toothpaste brands on the market, it’s overwhelming to find a toothpaste that best fits your needs. That’s why Dr. Suzanne Haeri of Los Angeles, CA created a simple guide for navigating the world of dental hygiene. Here’s everything you need to know about toothpaste. 

Know Ingredients

Most toothpaste brands use the same active ingredients in their formula. If you know you’re allergic or sensitive to a few ingredients, it’s helpful to be aware of what you’re putting in your mouth beforehand. 

For example, sodium lauryl sulfate, common in many tubes of toothpaste is known to trigger canker sores. If you’re prone to mouth ulcers like canker sores, its best to stay away from brands that use this ingredient.

Fluoride is another ingredient to know. An essential component to look for when purchasing toothpaste, fluoride fights tooth decay and strengthens the enamel. However, younger children should only use a tiny amount when brushing. Too much fluoride exposure during the first eight years of a child’s life leads to a cosmetic condition called fluorosis. 

Check for ADA Approval

The American Dental Association (ADA) evaluates every dental product on the market using strict guidelines of safety and effectiveness. The official ADA seal on an item means it’s trusted by your Los Angeles, CA dentist. 

Types of Toothpaste

The most important function of toothpaste is to fight cavities. Besides this purpose, it’s your preference for selecting a brand that targets additional oral health problems like:

-Sensitivity issues

-Whitening

-Bad breath

-Tartar control

-Allergies: Natural or organic toothpaste was invented as an additive-free option for dental hygiene. These products work the same as regular toothpaste but their mild contents are suitable for people with oral allergies.

To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.suzannehaeridds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Suzanne Haeri, DDS herself in our Los Angeles, CA office, call 310-657-2200.

Fluorosis

Do your child’s teeth look different? White spots or pits? Your child may have fluorosis, a condition that’s caused by increased fluoride exposure while the teeth are growing into permanent molars. Located in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Suzanne Haeri treats a variety of dental conditions, including fluorosis.

 

Cause

Fluorosis is caused by overexposure of fluoride on your child’s teeth during the first eight years of their life. 

 

Fluoride is a natural ingredient present in products like toothpaste, water, soda, juice, and mouthwash. Your Los Angeles, CA dentist rounded up some tips for limiting fluoride intake:

 

-Avoid soda and juice.

-Use a toothpaste amount no smaller than a grain of rice for children under age three. For older children apply a pea-size amount.

-Fluoride levels in water normally don’t affect teeth. If your community’s water source contains high amounts of fluoride, consider other water sources like bottled water.

-Keep mouthwash away from children under the age of six.

 

Symptoms

-Yellow or dark brown discoloration

-White pits or spots

-Ridges around the teeth

 

Although fluorosis has no serious oral health effects, symptoms are permanent without treatment. For some patients, the changes in appearance are a source of shame or loss of confidence.

 

Treatment

We offer a variety of cosmetic treatments for both adults and children who have fluorosis at our Los Angeles, CA office:

 

-Teeth whitening and bleaching

-Crowns

-Veneers and Lumineers

-Bonding

To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.suzannehaeridds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Suzanne Haeri, DDS herself in our Los Angeles, CA office, call 310-657-2200.

 

Canker Sores 101

Canker sores are irritating wounds in your mouth that make chewing, talking, and even moving your jaw incredibly painful. But you don’t have to suffer forever. Located in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Suzanne Haeri specializes in all things relating to the mouth, including canker sores. Here’s everything you need to know about canker sores.

What Do Canker Sores Look Like?

Canker sores or mouth ulcers emerge as small shallow open wounds in the mouth. Usually appearing under the lips, tongue, or inside the cheeks, canker sores are red with a thin grey, yellow or white film. 

There are three types of canker sores: minor, major, and herpetiform sores. Minor canker sores are the most common type of mouth ulcer. Major and herpetiform sores are rarer, both with longer healing periods Major canker sores may scar as they heal. 

Causes

We don’t know exactly what causes canker sores, but your Los Angeles, CA dentist rounded up some potential triggers:

Stress
Physical trauma like rough brushing, biting, or metal braces scratching around the gum line

Poor dental hygiene

Acidic and spicy foods
Nutritional deficiencies like vitamin B12
Sodium lauryl sulfate, commonly used in toothpaste

Treatment

Canker sores aren’t serious and certainly not contagious. Usually, these ulcers heal within 7-10 days, but if you get persistent canker sores or experience extreme pain, contact Dr. Haeri’s office for an appointment today.

To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.suzannehaeridds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Suzanne Haeri, DDS herself in our Los Angeles, CA office, call 310-657-2200.

3 Ways Stress Affects Your Dental Health

Stress is usually synonymous with mental or emotional strain, but this strain also affects your oral health. Located in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Suzanne Haeri treats all things teeth, including all stress-induced conditions.

Teeth Grinding

Bruxism or clenching and grinding of the teeth can be caused by stress and anxiety. Oftentimes, you’re unaware you’re even grinding since occurs during sleep, leading to enamel damage and even jaw soreness and headaches. To protect your teeth from the damaging effects of grinding, your Los Angeles, CA dentist recommends a dental night guard to wear. 

Gum Disease

Another condition potentially caused by stress is gum disease. If you’re under extreme stress, you’re more inclined to snacking on sugary food or even forgetting to take care of your teeth. Failure to brush or floss regularly increases your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Canker Sores

Canker sores or mouth ulcers are also thought to be triggered by stress or a decreased immune system. These small shallow wounds occur around the insides of your lips and make it difficult to eat or talk. While these sores naturally disappear after 7-10 days, contact our office today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Haeri.

To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.suzannehaeridds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Suzanne Haeri, DDS herself in our Los Angeles, CA office, call 310-657-2200.

6 Tips to Improve Your Smile

Your smile is key to making a good first impression. That’s why Dr. Suzanne Haeri is passionate about improving her patients’ smiles at her Los Angeles, CA office one mouth at a time. Here are six ways to transform your smile today!

 

Proper Hygiene

Regularly flossing and brushing your teeth is a no-brainer for keeping your smile beautiful and healthy. Without proper care, your molars will rot and decay. Invest in a good quality toothbrush for use twice a day. Try to rinse your mouth with water after every meal to remove any lingering debris in your molars. Forming good habits like this will take you far in achieving the pearly smile you dream of! 

 

Eating Healthy
It’s no secret that sugary drinks and junk food have a big impact on your teeth. If you want a beautiful smile, its best to stay away from unhealthy foods. A little candy or soft drink is fine here and there, but don’t let your sugar tooth run loose.  Too much sugar results in everything to avoid for a pretty smile: cavities, tooth decay, enamel, and gum erosion, and much more.

 

Avoid Foods That Stain
Coffee, red wine, and even tomatoes are just some of the many foods that stain your natural teeth hue. But, you don’t have to ditch the drink right away. Instead, opt for a straw when you sip and rinse after consuming.

 

Teeth Whitening and Bleaching
Some teeth stains are unavoidable and that’s where your Los Angeles, CA dentist comes in. To return your teeth to their natural color, we offer teeth whitening trays to use in the comfort of your own home. First, we’ll make an impression of your teeth. Then we’ll send you off with a custom whitening tray and gel to apply after the process is complete. For whitening your teeth beyond their natural color,  Dr. Haeri recommends bleaching which can be done at our LA office.

 

Braces

Do you have gaps or crooked teeth? Braces are a great way to fix this issue all while drastically altering your smile for the better.

 

Veneers and Lumineers
Veneers and Lumineers are great options for people interested in changing their smiles. Made of porcelain, veneers are thin casings of ceramic that bond to the front of discolored or crooked teeth. Unlike traditional veneers, Lumineers don’t involve anesthesia.

 

To learn about the services we provide at our practice, visit www.suzannehaeridds.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Suzanne Haeri, DDS herself in our Los Angeles, CA office, call 310-657-2200.

 

 

Gum Disease and Impacted Teeth

An impacted tooth isn’t just an uncomfortable cosmetic issue; it’s a potential threat to a patient’s oral health. At the South Carthay dental office of Dr. Suzanne Haeri, we offer a full suite of general and cosmetic dental services for each of our patients’ individual needs. An impacted tooth is one situation in which a tooth extraction might be warranted, so we want our patients to understand its seriousness and their full range of options.

 

We use the term “impacted” to describe a tooth that is unable to fully emerge from the gum. This can happen to any tooth, but since wisdom teeth are the largest and last to erupt, it’s most likely to happen to them. When a wisdom tooth only partly erupts, a large section of it will remain covered by a flap of gum tissue called an operculum. Food debris will get caught under the operculum, where a patient will have difficulty dislodging it. There, bacteria will feed on it, causing inflammation around the partly-erupted dental crown, which is a condition we call “pericoronitis.” The patient will experience soreness and swelling, and since the infection will not get better on its own, there’s a risk it will spread.

 

An operculum can be cleaned by a dental hygienist, and we encourage patients not to wait to get this done. But as long as the operculum remains, more food can get stuck under it. One solution would be to cut the operculum away, but this would not fix any other problems the impacted tooth is causing, such as bite difficulties. Although we don’t take tooth extraction lightly, it is a common, efficient process, and one that will allow a patient to quickly resume chewing normally with much less discomfort.

 

The dental office of Suzanne Haeri, DDS, is located at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, California, 90035. To schedule an appointment, call 310-657-2200 or visit our website at Suzanne Haeri DDS.

 

Types of Mouthwash

As both a cosmetic and general dental office, we at the South Carthay practice of Dr. Suzanne Haeri know that our patients want their mouths to smell as good as they look. The bacteria on our tongues and enamel emit a foul odor that is usually the cause of bad breath, and mouthwash is one of the most common tools for fighting them. But how does mouthwash fit into routine oral hygiene? In this post, we’ll explore the different types and when they are recommended.

 

No mouthwash is able to replace brushing and flossing, but many kinds can supplement them. Cosmetic mouthwash is that which only masks a bad smell, while therapeutic mouthwash kills oral bacteria and helps to guard against the development of gum disease. Sometimes available by prescription, therapeutic mouthwash may be used when a patient has a dry socket or other dental injury. Many mouthwashes also contain fluoride to help bolster enamel’s defense against oral bacteria’s acidic secretions and may benefit people who suffer recurring tooth decay.

 

Some mouthwash also provides pain relief and may be used when a patient has mouth sores. But one thing to be cautious of is that mouthwash is often alcoholic, and while there is no evidence it contributes to oral cancer, it may dry out a user’s mouth if they don’t hydrate sufficiently. Alcohol-free mouthwashes are commonly available for children, and many teenagers with orthodontic appliances especially enjoy having an easy way of improving their breath.

 

The dental office of Suzanne Haeri, DDS, is located at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, California, 90035. To schedule an appointment, call 310-657-2200 or visit our website at Suzanne Haeri DDS.

 

Flossing Technique

When you floss properly, you greatly reduce your risk of tooth decay, gum recession, halitosis, and all sorts of associated problems. But flossing properly isn’t quite as simple as it sounds. At the South Carthay cosmetic and general dentistry office of Dr. Suzanne Haeri, we strive to provide our patients with top-quality care, but to keep their smiles dazzling in between dental appointments, patients need to understand how to improve their oral hygiene. With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at how to floss.

 

Since you’ll be removing plaque from your teeth each time you floss, you’ll want to use a long strand. Fifteen to eighteen inches should be sufficient. You’ll be able to manipulate the strand with your pointer fingers and thumbs if you wrap the ends around your middle fingers. As you go from each side of each tooth, unspool a little more floss and wrap it around the other middle finger so you’re not just transferring plaque between teeth. On each side of each tooth, slide the floss as far as it will comfortably go, bend it around the tooth in a c-shape, and rub it back and forth as you move it back out. You shouldn’t bleed or be in pain, but the floss will move a short distance into the area between the crown and the gum tissue. Don’t forget the back sides of the back teeth.

 

If you do bleed while flossing your teeth, you likely have gingivitis and may need a professional cleaning. But flossing is a necessity for anyone with teeth, even if the teeth are artificial. Although it doesn’t make much difference whether flossing is done before or after brushing, it needs to be done at least once a day. We can give you a demonstration if there’s any part of it you’re still confused about, and if you’re struggling, you may want to look into getting a flosser, which mounts a strand of floss on an easy to grip handle.

 

The dental office of Suzanne Haeri, DDS, is located at 1100 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, California, 90035. To schedule an appointment, call 310-657-2200 or visit our website at Suzanne Haeri DDS.

 

Healthy Snacks For Children

Providing your children with a healthy and nutritious diet is a great way to prevent cavities. Sugary foods attract harmful bacteria to the teeth. This creates more instances of tooth decay and other oral complications. That’s why Dr. Suzanne Haeri in Los Angeles, CA, has put together a small dental guide to healthy snacks. Eating healthy guarantees a happy mouth!

 

It can be a real challenge getting your kids to eat foods that aren’t sugary sweet. Not every kid is good about eating vegetables like broccoli or celery either. That doesn’t mean you’re out of luck! Variety is key to nutritional harmony. Your Los Angeles, CA, dentist and the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that your child’s diet consists of fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy, protein sources like nuts and lean meats, and whole grains.

 

Here are a few snacks tested and approved by your dentist:

-Veggies with dip

-Cheddar cheese and apples

-Sliced watermelon

-Low-fat yogurt with berries

-Unsalted almonds or coconut flakes

-Toasted whole-grain pita chips with hummus

 

Try to limit how much your child is snacking. Encourage them to eat more at the three meals of the day. A few snacks are fine, just don’t go overboard! Your mouth needs a break in between eating to clean itself, washing away any leftover food debris.

 

Dr. Suzanne Haeri is a quality dentist in the Los Angeles, CA, area. If you or your child need a dental appointment, call her office at 310-657-2200. You can also visit her website at https://www.suzannehaeridds.com/.

Lumineers

Dr. Suzanne Haeri is a cosmetic and general dentist located in Los Angeles, CA. She can help you keep your teeth both looking good and clean! One of the services she provides is Lumineers. Lumineers are very similar to veneers with one major difference: lumineers require no preparation beforehand! That means you will walk out of our office with brand new teeth. These ultra-thin shells are placed on your teeth easily with zero discomforts. Talk to our office today to set up your appointment.

 

You should never be embarrassed about your teeth and smile. That’s why we offer lumineers at our office in Los Angeles, CA. These correct dental issues like stained, gapped, crooked, chipped, and misshapen teeth. The entire process is very quick. Your dentist takes a mold of your top and bottom teeth. This creates your customized lumineers. Unlike with veneers, you won’t need temporary devices, drilling, or shots.

 

At your appointment with Dr. Haeri, you’ll test out the lumineers after their creation. Try them on to make sure they fit and match your standards. If you like them, we’ll apply them to your teeth right away.

 

Lumineers come with many great benefits. The biggest is the vast improvement in the appearance of your teeth. They are also much quicker and more efficient than veneers. When you start the process of veneers, your natural teeth require basic reshaping. That’s not an issue with veneers. No part of your natural teeth requires manipulation. Lumineers are placed right onto the enamel to guarantee their security.

 

If you’re considering making a change in your smile, talk to your Los Angeles, CA, dentist about Lumineers. They are an efficient and easy way to achieve a beautiful smile. To learn more about Dr. Suzanne Haeri and her services, call 310-657-2200 or visit https://www.suzannehaeridds.com/.

Intrinsic Staining

Our teeth become stained over time from exposure to the foods we eat and drinks we ingest. If you start to notice your teeth becoming particularly discolored, contact Dr. Suzanne Haeri for an appointment. Located in Los Angeles, CA, she can help you feel proud of your smile. Stains aren’t just a cosmetic issue but a sign of a deeper problem. Dr. Haeri works with you to clear your stains and prevent them in the future.

 

There are two types of staining on teeth: extrinsic and intrinsic. This blog will focus more on intrinsic staining, which is more severe and deeper than its counterpart. An intrinsic stain needs a quick evaluation by your Los Angeles, CA, dentist. A tooth that becomes deeply stained poses the possibility that it is decaying or dying. A dead or necrotic tooth requires immediate extraction. There are many ways a tooth is damaged. An injury or trauma to the tooth creates an abnormal blood flow. The iron in the blood stains the dentin a darker color. Don’t panic if a stained tooth has been there since childhood. This stain was most likely caused by antibiotics taken as a child.

 

At your appointment with Dr. Haeri, she will examine the tooth in question. She’ll check to see if it responds to certain stimuli, like temperature and touch. If the tooth is infected, you’ll need a root canal. Injured teeth also benefit from this procedure because it relieves some of the pressure. If the tooth is dead, it needs to be removed right away.

 

Don’t wait when you notice a difference in your teeth. Contact Dr. Suzanne Haeri and set up an appointment. Located in Los Angeles, CA, you can contact her office by calling 310-657-2200 or visiting https://www.suzannehaeridds.com/.

Filling Failure

If you’ve ever had a cavity, then you know what a dental filling is. Your dentist removes the decayed part of the tooth and fills it with a compatible substance. This is one of the most common procedures that Dr. Suzanne Haeri performs in her Los Angeles, CA, office every day. What many people don’t realize is that you need to take special care of your fillings. Otherwise, you are at risk for a filling failure.

 

A failed filling is a very serious problem. When the seal between the filling and the tooth breaks, the area becomes vulnerable to dangerous bacteria. The area behind the filling can’t be cleaned with a toothbrush or floss. This means that there is no way to clean out any gathered bacteria. Decay can start quickly and flourish.

 

There are a few factors that lead to a filling failure:

 

-Age of the filling: the older the filling is, the more likely it is to chip, crack, or break down.

-Grinding your teeth: if you have a habit of grinding or clenching your teeth, the repeated stress puts your fillings at risk.

-The size of the filling: a larger cavity requires a larger filling. This makes the tooth weaker since the majority of it is made from the filling.

-Dental hygiene: take good care of your teeth after a filling. Brushing and flossing daily keeps your mouth cavity-free.

-Types of fillings: talk to your Los Angeles, CA, dentist about what kind of filling is right for you. Tooth-colored fillings blend with your teeth but also wear out faster than their silver amalgam counterparts.

 

Make sure to pay close attention to your filling during your daily dental routine. Pain in the specified tooth is a clear sign of an infection. As the bacteria move further behind the filling, it sets off the nerves in the tooth. Another common indicator is a sudden sensitivity to hot and cold.

 

Dr. Suzanne Haeri is a quality dentist located in the Los Angeles, CA, area. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment, call 310-657-2200 or visit her website at https://www.suzannehaeridds.com/.

Dry Sockets in Children

Adults aren’t the only ones that require teeth removal. Children also need teeth extracted in case of infection, trauma, or abnormality. It’s the parent’s responsibility to help their child keep their mouth clean after an extraction. This guarantees the avoidance of a dry socket. Follow the instructions given to you by Dr. Suzanne Haeri in Los Angeles, CA, for the best results.

 

A dry socket is when a blood clot doesn’t properly form after a tooth is removed. This is a required step in the healing process. Otherwise, your child is at risk of infection from dangerous pathogens and bacteria. Your Los Angeles, CA, dentist will give pain medication for your child. Pay close attention to their pain levels following the surgery. If they complain of discomfort even after taking the right dosage, they might have a dry socket. Look for these symptoms:

 

-Low-grade fever

-Bad breath

-A visible lack of blood clot in the socket

-Pain and warmth radiating from the extraction site into other parts of the face, neck, and head

 

Talk to your Los Angeles, CA, dentist right away if you notice these symptoms. Your child may require a change in prescriptions and a checkup on the clot’s progress. Otherwise, the best treatment for a dry socket is prevention. Keep your child from drinking with a straw or spitting. The suction from these actions can dislodge the blood clot.

 

Dr. Suzanne Haeri is a top-tier dental professional located in Los Angeles, CA. If you want to learn more about her services, call her office at 310-657-2200 or visit her website at https://www.suzannehaeridds.com/.